We fixed that same problem on our 2001 Escort recently.
On top of the engine you'll see a tiny right angled piece of tubing, faces backward toward the rear. It is likely frayed or has a hole in it. It's the PCV hose mentioned above.
Has a wider part at one end than the other, but if you have some good strong flexible hose it'll work as a repair.
They had the exact bit in stock at our local autostore and I think it was around $12.
Fixed all idle problems completely. Just that little bit of hose !
Saturday, November 24th, 2012 AT 9:12 PM